Houston prepares for World Cup 2026

Photo courtesy of FIFA Media Hub, Used with permission.

By Robert Kelly
Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 5, 2026) Houston is set to take center stage in the global spotlight as it prepares to host matches for the upcoming FIFA World Cup. As one of the selected host cities in the United States, Houston will welcome teams and fans from around the world, bringing an exciting wave of international culture, competition, and economic activity to the region.

Matches will be held at NRG Stadium (renamed to Houston Stadium for the World Cup), a world-class venue known for hosting major sporting events, including the Super Bowl and international soccer exhibitions. With a seating capacity of over 70,000, the stadium is expected to be filled with passionate fans representing a wide range of countries, creating an electric atmosphere throughout each match.

City officials and organizers have been working for years to prepare Houston for this global event. Improvements to transportation, infrastructure, and public spaces are already underway to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for visitors. Local businesses, hotels, and restaurants are also gearing up for a significant increase in tourism, anticipating a major economic boost.

Beyond the matches themselves, Houston plans to host fan festivals, cultural events, and community celebrations, giving residents and visitors alike the chance to engage with the spirit of the World Cup. These activities will highlight Houston’s diversity and hospitality, reinforcing its reputation as one of the most dynamic cities in the United States.

For soccer fans in Texas and across the country, the upcoming World Cup games in Houston represent a rare opportunity to witness the world’s most popular sport at its highest level without leaving the United States. The countdown has begun, and excitement continues to build as Houston prepares to play its part on the world stage.

Houston Cougars win Texas Bowl thriller, down LSU 38-35

Houston quarterback Conner Weigman hands off the ball to
running back to DJ Butler in the Cougars win over LSU.
Photo by Darla S Tamulitism La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (December 27, 2025) The Houston Cougars capped off a big season with a 38-35 win over the LSU Tigers in the Kinder’s Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium on Saturday night. It was a close and exciting game that fans will remember for a long time.

The Tigers jumped out to an early lead and looked strong at first. On the very first play of the game, Barion Brown returned the opening kickoff 99 yards for a touchdown to put the Tigers up 7-0. LSU then added another score to make it 14-0 in the first quarter.

However, the Cougars did not give up. Quarterback Conner Weigman, who was selected the game's MVP, as voted by the media, led a big comeback for the Cougars. He was sharp all night, throwing four touchdown passes and finishing with 236 passing yards. Weigman connected with key receivers like Amare Thomas and Tanner Koziol to help Houston erase the early deficit.

In the post game press conference, the UH quarterback was asked about his favorite moment on the field, from the celebration or in the locker room; something that he thought was goin to stick with him.

Yeah, just some of the seniors; Tanner (Kozios), Dean (Conners), Matt (Wykoff), all those guys; that was the last time I'm going to be able to play football with those guys. It meant a lot to me. Those are my brothers.

Houston took the lead and did not look back. Ethan Sanchez hit a 25-yard field goal late in the fourth quarter to push the Cougars ahead 31-28. Then Dean Connors scored a 20-yard rushing touchdown with just over two minutes left, making it 38-28 and giving Houston a big boost.

LSU tried to rally late, and Zavion Thomas scored a rushing touchdown with about a minute to play, cutting the deficit to 38-35. But Houston recovered the onside kick and ran out the clock to seal the victory.

The win gave Houston a 10-3 final season record with the Tigers finish 7-6,

LSU downs Baylor in Kinder's Texas Bowl

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2025 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (January 1, 2025, All Rights Reserved) The LSU Tigers wrapped up their season in style, defeating the Baylor Bears 44-31 on Tuesday afternoon (December 31, 2024) to win the Kinder’s Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium. Quarterback Garrett Nussmeier led the charge, throwing for 313 yards and three touchdowns as LSU ended their year with a strong 9-4 record.

The Tigers wasted no time making their presence felt. On their first drive, Nussmeier connected with freshman tight end Trey’Dez Green for a crucial 5-yard first down on 4th-and-5. A few plays later, Nussmeier found Green again for a 10-yard touchdown, giving LSU a 7-0 lead early in the first quarter.

Baylor tried to respond, but LSU’s defense stepped up. Freshman linebacker Davhon Keys intercepted Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson and returned it 40 yards for a touchdown. That play made Keys just the third LSU player ever to score a pick-six in a bowl game. LSU’s lead quickly grew to 14-0.

The Bears fought back with a 21-yard touchdown pass from Robertson to Josh Cameron, cutting the lead to 14-7. But LSU’s offense wasn’t done. Nussmeier delivered a 40-yard touchdown pass to Chris Hilton Jr., and the Tigers were back in control at 21-7.

Hilton continued to shine, hauling in a 43-yard catch that set up another touchdown. Nussmeier found Green for his second touchdown catch of the game, extending the Tigers’ lead to 28-7. The LSU defense held strong, forcing a turnover on downs when Robertson was sacked by Whit Weeks and Sai’vion Jones.

Baylor showed some life before halftime. They blocked a 36-yard field goal attempt and scored on a Dawson Pendergrass touchdown run, trimming LSU’s lead to 28-14. But LSU answered right back. Zavion Thomas returned the ensuing kickoff 95 yards for a touchdown, pushing the lead to 34-14. It was LSU’s second kickoff return touchdown of the season, marking a first in the SEC era.

In the second half, Baylor tried to rally. They scored on a 4-yard pass from Robertson to Ashtyn Hawkins, narrowing the score to 34-24. LSU turned the ball over on back-to-back possessions, but Baylor couldn’t capitalize. A bad snap on 4th-and-1 gave the Tigers the ball back.

LSU’s offense found its rhythm again in the fourth quarter. Running back Josh Williams powered in a 4-yard touchdown run to extend the lead to 41-24. Kicker Damian Ramos added a 43-yard field goal, making it 44-24.

Baylor scored one last time with a 3-yard rush from Pendergrass, but it wasn’t enough. The Tigers’ defense stood firm, and LSU secured the win.

This victory capped off an exciting season for LSU, who now looks ahead to their 2025 opener against Clemson on August 30. 

Air Force soars to victory over Sam Houston State in defensive battle

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (September 9, 2023) In a showdown at the Salute to Service Classic at NRG Stadium, Air Force emerged victorious with a hard-fought 13-3 win over Sam Houston State on Saturday might The game was marked by tenacious defense from both sides, but it was Air Force's late surge that ultimately secured the victory.

The first half of the game was a defensive slugfest, with both teams battling fiercely to gain the upper hand. Sam Houston's defense showed great resilience, allowing only three points to Air Force in the opening half. The Bearkats' determination kept them in the game, despite their offensive struggles.

Sam Houston's offense struggled to find its rhythm until the third quarter, managing just 80 total yards in the game. The turning point came when fullback Emmanuel Michel broke free for a 22-yard gain. However, linebacker Kavian Gaither's relentless pursuit forced a fumble, and Dakerric Hobbs pounced on the ball at the Kats' 38-yard line.

This turnover gave Sam Houston a glimmer of hope. Running back Zach Hrbacek took charge, gaining 14 yards on three carries to penetrate Air Force territory for the first time. Quarterback Keegan Shoemaker contributed with an eight-yard keeper, and despite facing a daunting sack, he remained composed. A seven-yard pass to Hrbacek and a 10-yard connection to Ife Adeyi kept the drive alive.

Overcoming a holding penalty, Shoemaker demonstrated his poise, connecting with Noah Smith for a crucial 13-yard gain. This set the stage for Colby Sessums, who nailed a 45-yard field goal to end a six-quarter scoring drought for the Kats, leveling the game.

As the fourth quarter began, Air Force managed to break the tie with their second 42-yard field goal. The Falcon's unyielding defense continued to stifle Sam Houston, allowing them to regain control of the game. Fullback Owen Burk sealed the victory for Air Force with a five-yard touchdown run, putting the Falcons ahead by ten points with just over five minutes remaining.

ESPN Events and Lone Star Sports & Entertainment Cancel Mercari Texas Bowl

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2020 All Rights Reserved 

HOUSTON, TEXAS (December 29, 2020) ESPN Events and Lone Star Sports & Entertainment announced earlier today that due to an increased number of positive COVID-19 tests and other circumstances within the TCU football program, the 2020 Mercari Texas Bowl has been canceled.

“While we are disappointed in canceling this year’s game, we look forward to hosting both the Texas Kickoff and Texas Bowl next season,” said David Fletcher, executive director. “We appreciate everyone’s support, including our new title sponsor, Mercari.”

The 2020 edition, slated for December 31, was scheduled with the TCU Horned Frogs (6-4, 5-4 Big 12) facing the Arkansas Razorbacks (3-7, 3-7, SEC).

Mercari Texas Bowl to feature Arkansas vs. TCU

By Chris Price
Copyright 2020 All Rights Reserved 

HOUSTON, TEXAS (December 25, 2020) The 15th edition of the Texas Bowl will be held Thursday, December 31, 2020, with a new title sponsor. Mercari, a Japanese e-commerce company founded in February 2013 and currently operating in Japan and the United States, has signed on as the title sponsor of the game.

The New Year's Eve matchup will feature the Arkansas Razorbacks, representing the SEC and the TCU Horned Frogs, representing the Big 12. The former Southwest Conference foes have met 70 times previously, with Arkansas holding a 44–24–2 series lead, though this will be their first postseason meeting. The two teams last met in 2016 and 2017, as part of a home-and-home series, with each team winning their respective away contest.

Arkansas enters the game with a 3–7 record, having played an all-SEC schedule, under first-year head coach Sam Pittman. The Razorbacks are appearing in their first bowl game since the 2016 Belk Bowl. They are making their second Texas Bowl appearance, with the first coming in a win over Texas in 2014.

TCU enters the game with a 6–4 record, 5–4 in conference play, under 20th-year head coach Gary Patterson. The Horned Frogs are appearing in their first bowl game since the 2018 Cheez-It Bowl. They are making their second Texas Bowl appearance, with the first coming in a win over Houston in 2007.

CONCACAF suspends Nations League Finals

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2020 All Rights Reserved

MIAMI, FLORIDA (April 3, 2020) The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) has announced their Nations League Finals, scheduled for June 4-7, 2020 will be suspended due to the ongoing health situation concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.

Games were scheduled to be played at BBVA Stadium and NRG Stadium in Houston and AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. On Thursday, June 4, the United States was scheduled to face Honduras at 7 p.m. CDT at BBVA Stadium in Houston. Later that evening,, Mexico would play Costa Rica at 9 p.m. CDT at NRG Stadium, also is Houston. The third place and final games were scheduled for Sunday, June 7 at AT&T Stadium

CONCACAF stated in a prepared press release, "The event, which includes the Costa Rica, Honduras, Mexico and USA men’s national teams, will be rescheduled to take place at a later date in venues to be determined. This will be confirmed following further discussions with FIFA regarding the remaining international windows in the football calendar, and will obviously be subject to public health authorities deeming it safe for professional sports events to resume."

No. 9 Atascocita downs No. 19 Katy Tompkins, 42-24 in UIL football playoff action.

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2019 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (November 30, 2019) In a battle of 11-1 teams, the No. 9 Atascocita Eagles defeated the No. 10 Katy Tompkins Falcons by the score of 42-24 at NRG Stadium on Saturday. The win set up a UIL Region 3 final, pitting the Eagles against the No 3 North Shore Mustangs.

Atascocita got on the scoreboard first, at the 6:41 mark of the first quarter, with a Brice Matthews to Keith Wheeler four-yard pass to complete a 15-play, 70-yard drive. On the following drive, Tompkins marched the ball 60 yards in 13 plays, but could only manage a 32-yard field goal by Hunter Huckaby. The first quarter ended with the Eagles leading the Falcons 7-3.

With 6:19 remaining in the first half, Matthews again connected with Wheeler with a 14-yard pass to give the Eagles a 14-3 lead. They followed that TD up four minutes later when T.J. Thomas carried the ball the final five yards for Atascocita's third touchdown of the game. After the Eagles intercepted a Tompkins pass in the final minutes of the first half, Matthews carried the ball into the end zone to post a 28-3 with 2:27 to go in the half. However, the Eagles were not done as Matthews again connected, this time with Landen King for another six points. With the extra point, the Eagles head to the locker room after 24 minutes of play with a 35-3 lead.

Tompkins finally found some offense when they came onto the field for the third quarter. After driving down the field, Jalen Milroe found Marquis Shoulders open and flicked him a three-yard pass for the score at the 6:35 mark of the quarter Huckaby added the kicking conversion to cut Atascocita's lead to 35-10.

Early in the fourth quarter, with 11:32 remaining in the game, the Eagles added seven more points on a TJ Thomas four-yard run and a Sean Nesemeier kicking conversion. the junior kicked also converted the previous five extra points to add to Atascocita' total. Thirty-seven seconds later, Tompkins added seven points to their total on a Jalen Milroe to Marquis Shoulders 77-yard pass and another Huckaby extra point. After Atascocita fumbles on their own seven-yard-line, the Eagles pull a halfback pass oout of the playbook. Gabe Atkin hits Milroe with a seven-yard pass for the TD. Huckaby added the extra point to put the score at 42-24 with 10:48 to play. After a great deal of give-and-take for the reamined of the game, Alascocita pulled out the win and are headed to a Region 3 match-up against the No. 5 North Shore Mustangs on Saturday, December 7, 2019 with a 2 p.m. kickoff at Sheldon ISD Stadium in Houston.

Mexico to face Ghana in international soccer friendly at NRG Stadium

Mexico last appeared in Houston  during the 

2016 Copa America tournament.

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography

Copyright 2017, All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2017 TexSport Publications

HOUSTON, TEXAS (June 25, 2017) Soccer fans from Houston and the Gulf Coast area will be headed to NRG Stadium on Wednesday, June 28, 2017 to witness No. 17 Mexico take on No. 49 Ghana in an international friendly match. Pre-game ceremonies and activities are scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CDT with kickoff slated for 8:06 p.m. CDT.

The match will be the final game for “El Tricolor” prior to their participation in the 2017 CONCACAF Gold Cup, the official national team competition in the region. Mexico has defeated Ghana in two all-time meetings (2006 and 2008). The 2006 game, played at FC Dallas’ Toyota Stadium, saw Guillermo Franco score the game’s only goal with a 75th minute header. Mexican National Team legend Pável Pardo was the hero of the 2008 game, scoring the winning goal,  a penalty,in the 85th minute to give Mexico a 2-1 win, in a match played in England.

In the first match of their 2017 tour, Mexico defetaed Iceland 1-0 at Sam Boyd Stadium in Las Vegas on February 8. They followed that with 2-1 loss to Croatia at the LA Memorial Coliseum on May 27. After the loss to Croatia, they rebounded with a 3-1 over Ireland at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.